Wilfried Ndidi intends to stay at Besiktas despite transfer interest

Super Eagles captain Wilfried Ndidi is expected to stay at Besiktas for the 2026-27 season. The 29-year-old midfielder has decided to remain with the Turkish side despite significant interest from various clubs during the current transfer window.

Ndidi joined Besiktas last summer following a nine-year tenure with Leicester City. During his first year in Turkey, he made 31 appearances across all competitions, including 25 matches in the Super Lig. He also took on a leadership role within the squad, captaining the team on several occasions.

Speculation regarding his departure intensified following the exit of head coach Sergen Yalcin and the appointment of Vincenzo Italiano. Several teams explored the possibility of signing the Nigerian midfielder. Al Ittihad in the Saudi Pro League sought him as a replacement for Fabinho after missing out on Raphael Onyedika. Additionally, Manchester United considered him to replace Casemiro, though interest from the English club has since cooled. Newly promoted Saudi side Al Diriyah also looked into a move for him.

Despite these options, Ndidi has not requested a transfer and intends to continue his career in Turkey. His decision represents a setback for Al Ittihad's pursuit of a replacement. However, the final determination regarding his future remains with Besiktas, as the club must decide whether to retain him for their trophy challenges or accept incoming offers before the window shuts.

Ndidi is currently in contention to play when Besiktas begins their 2026-27 Super Lig campaign against Eyupspor this Sunday. While his status is expected to remain unchanged for the start of the season, his situation could still evolve before the transfer period concludes.